Red-wattled lapwing

The red-wattled lapwing is a fascinating ground-dwelling bird from the Charadriidae family, easily recognized by its loud and distinctive alarm calls, which often alert other animals to approaching threats. These birds are typically seen in pairs or small groups near water, and during the non-breeding season, they can gather in large numbers. They nest on the ground, laying well-camouflaged eggs, and fiercely protect their young from predators.

First described by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, in 1781, the red-wattled lapwing has undergone several taxonomic revisions. Today, four recognized subspecies span its range. These birds are noted for their striking appearance and unique vocalizations, including their noisy "did-he-do-it" call. They thrive in well-watered open areas, where their loud calls are often heard.

Red-wattled lapwings breed across South Asia and parts of Southeast Asia, exhibiting varied distribution patterns and migratory behaviors. While they are abundant in South Asia, their numbers are declining in the western parts of their range. The breeding season runs from March to August, featuring male courtship displays that involve puffing their feathers and other behaviors to attract females. Their nests are expertly camouflaged, and both parents share the duties of incubating the eggs and protecting the chicks.

Their diet mainly consists of insects and invertebrates, with occasional grains. They forage primarily during the day and engage in behaviors like bathing, preening, and resting on the ground or one leg. Although they have few natural predators, they are agile fliers and can quickly escape when threatened. However, they do face health risks from parasitic infections.